English▾
Why someone might not use their voice
- Selective mutism — an anxiety disorder that makes speaking physically impossible in certain situations
- Mutism — neurological, trauma-induced, or linked to conditions such as autism
- Social anxiety — voice communication can feel overwhelming, even in casual online contexts
- Speech impediment or disability — stuttering, dysphonia, aphasia, and many other conditions affect the voice
- Physical condition — laryngitis, vocal strain, chronic illness, or post-surgery recovery
- Personal comfort — some people simply communicate better through writing — and that's valid
- Trauma — past experiences can make voice communication feel unsafe or triggering
What NOT to do
- Ban them because they don't speak with their "real voice"
- Force them to unmute or join a voice channel
- Accuse them of being fake, a bot, or hiding something
- Mock or dismiss text-based communication as "not enough"
- Exclude them from events, raids, or group activities
- Assume they're AFK, lazy, or disengaged
- Demand "proof" of their condition or disability
- Treat them as less committed or less serious than other members
What to do instead
- Accept text chat as a valid and equal form of communication
- Make key information available in text, not only through voice
- Be patient — typed responses may take a moment longer
- Check in privately if you think accommodations might help
- Educate your community and establish clear, inclusive norms
- Treat them with the same respect as any other member